Looking to spend a few days camping out in the woods? Within a short drive from the Washington, DC area you can find a wide selection of campgrounds. Here is a guide to the campgrounds in Maryland and Virginia. It is a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation at most of these campgrounds, especially during the peak season in the late spring and early fall.

Camping in Maryland

Crow’s Nest Campground

Thurmont, Maryland. This quiet wooded campground about an hour north of Washington, DC has some campsites along a stream. There are 110 campsites, nature trails, a marina, boat launch, swimming pool and a playground. Reservations: (301) 271-7632.

Cunningham Falls State ParkThurmont, Maryland. Cunningham Falls is a state park in the Catoctin Mountains known for its 78-foot waterfall. There is also a 44-acre lake and a beach, used for swimming and boating. The campground includes 171 campsites and 9 cabins with hot showers, flush toilets and a camp store. Reservations: (8880 432-2267, Park Information: (301) 271-7574.

Greenbelt ParkGreenbelt, Maryland. This 1100-acre park is located just 13 miles from the heart of Washington, DC and has the closest campgrounds to the nation’s capital. There are 174 campgrounds, 10 miles of hiking trails and three picnic areas. Reservations: (301) 344-3944.